
Glass _ f'tsy 

Book_ T^l'L 

, 





/ 

HISTORY OF 


IRVINE AND ESTILL COUNTY, KENTUCKY 


E. C. PARK 



E. r HARK 


Mr. E. C. Park, tenders his experience to any one who desires 
assistance in the publication of any other State, County, or 
Country. 

He also would cheerfully enter into newspaper work, in which 
he has experience. jdddress him, 

E. C. PARK. 

Irvine, Ky. 



U). S. OLDHAM, 

TIIF, LEADING" 

Furniture Dealer In Central Kentucky. 


Always Keeps on Hand 
a Grand Assortment of 
Everything kept by an 
Experienced Dealer. 

Beds, Rocking Chairs, 
Sofas, Lounges, 

Side Boards. 


And indeed anythingjand 
everything to be found 
in a first class establish¬ 
ment. 


Also a magnificent dis¬ 
play of 

Carpets, Oil Cloths, 
Mattings, Etc. 

Prices to meet the de¬ 
mand of any customer. 


Especial Attention is 
called to his 

Undertaking 

Deparfmenl 


This department is com¬ 
plete in every detail. 

Polite and prompt at¬ 
tention guaranteed to all 
calls. 



Day Phone 70. Might Phone 130 and 179. 













ESTILL COUNTY 


“Breathes there a man with soul so dead 
Who never to himself hath said: 

This Is my own. m.v native land?” 

do not believe there is a Kentuckian who 
who has not realized the advantage and 
delight of being one. Ia»t him travel front 
the lakes to the gulf; from the Atlantic 
to the Pacific, and wherever he stops, 
wherever he goes, as soon as it is discovered that he is 
from “The Land of the Free, the Home of the Brave,” 
he is accorded a courtesy that is not shown a native of 
any other state in the Union. With few exceptions, a 
Kentuckian conducts himself in a manner that evokes 
praise and admiration. Brave, chivalrous, knightly, his 
demeanor wins for him and for his state the profoundest 
respect. It is a saying that is wide-spread, that Ken¬ 
tucky is noted for being the fountain head of “Beautiful 
Women, Fine Horses and Good Whisky.” While we 
revel in that reputation—the reputation of excelling in 
anything we undertake and what we possess bv nature, 
we are proud that we can boast of still other possessions. 
Honor is depicted upon the countenances of our deni¬ 
zens. In a trading transaction, the mere word of a gen¬ 
tleman from the State of Kentucky is oftimes worth 
more than the written contract of many inhabitants of 
other states. 

Nature has bestowed upon Kentucky some of her 
most gracious blessings. She is situated in the central 
part of the United States, where she is blessed with a 
delightful climate, that is pregnant witli health-giving 
properties. We are free from diseases that are incident 
to other localities. We are blessed with a soil that has 
no equal in the world. The Blue Grass region of Ken¬ 
tucky is not surpassed by any other upon which the 
foot of man has trodden. The eastern part of the state 
is rich in minerals of great variety and of immense value. 
The coal fields of Kentucky equal in quality and quan¬ 
tity the fields of almost any other state; the iron ore 
has taken premiums at the World’s Fair for excellence 
in quality; its timber resources are apparently inex¬ 
haustible. The variety of its timber products is won¬ 
derful ; gas and petroleum are now considered a common 
commodity in her domain. 

Surely God loved Kentucky, or she would not have 
been so generously rememl>ered. 

While it is true that the entire state is much blessed, 
there is within her borders one county that deserves a 
greater share of praise than has been accorded her. It 
is one of the counties that is situated between the Blue 


Grass and “the mountains”—consequently partaking "f 
the advantages that each section represents. 

It is the county of Estm.i . Estill. whose name sug¬ 
gests to the historian many a deed of nobility, many an 
episode of bravery that might be compared with those of 
more romantic countries anil with countries whose 
record extends from the prosperous days of Greece, 
through the history of Sunnv France, of Great Britain. 
Germany—of any place that has attracted the attention 
of good writers. 

Nature has lent her choicest apparel to Estill County. 
With her fertile valleys, her limpid streams, her tower¬ 
ing peaks, there is presented a feast for the soul of the 
artist or the poet. A visitor to Scotland or Switzerland 
or Italy would upon an honest confession admit that 
the views afforded by the mountain peaks—a part of 
the Cumberland range—is equal in grandeur and beauty 
to anything he may have seen there. Trees of different 
varieties cover the crest of these hills and mountains and 
with the sunlight shining upon the diversity of colors, 
and a look upon the broad fields of yellow corn, there 
is manifested not only beauty, but ideas of immense 
money value. It is certainly a place that should attract 
the wealth of investors, who are desirous of increasing 
or accumulating fortunes. 

Estill County was organized in ISOS, and is coinjioseil 
of parts of Madison and Clark Counties. It is the 
fiftieth county admitted in the state. Originally it was 
much larger than it now is. From its territory, largely, 
have been composed the counties of Breathitt, in 1830; 
Owsley, in 1S43; Powell, in 1852; Jackson, in 1858; 
Lee, in 1870. In 1888 another portion of Estill was 
turned over to Powell County. This was done on the 
part of political influence. Estill was strongly Demo¬ 
cratic. Our legislator in connection with Ijee County 
had a bill passed ceding Hardwicks Creek, one of the 
Democratic strongholds, to Powell County, thereby 
changing the political aspect of the county to Repub¬ 
licanism. 

The population of Estill County in 18fn was 8,082; 
in 18(iU, 6,836; in 1900, 11,GG9. In 1860, the white 
population was G,3G3; free colored, 16; slaves, 507. 

Estill County is bounded on the North by Powell and 
Clark Counties; on the East by Lee and Powell Coun¬ 
ties; on the Soutli by Jackson and Owsley Counties; on 
the West by Madison County. 

Estill County was named in honor of ('apt. James 
Estill, of Madison County, a man noted for his bravery 
and general merit. Capt. James Estill was a descend- 








4 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


ant of the famous Estill family of England and a de¬ 
scendant on his mother’s side of William Wallace. Her 
people were in Londonderry at the time of the great 
religious troubles in Ireland. One of his ancestors, 
during Cromwell’s control of the English government, 
with twelve other families, sailed for America and set¬ 
tled in New Jersey. His first son was the third male 
child born in New Jersey. This son was the father of 
Wallace Estill bom in 1700, and the latter named was 
the father of James Estill and Samuel Estill. Capt. 
James Estill was a man of small stature, but utterly 
regardless of danger. He had moved to Virginia, and 
from there he came to Boonesborough. When Duquesne 
with five lmndred Indians and French attacked the fort, 
there were only fifty men to defend the fort, but they 
fought for nine days and succeeded in holding it. Capt. 
James Estill built a fort on his place three miles south 
of Richmond. Col. Samuel Estill built one a mile and 
a half from “James Fort,” as it was called. In March, 
1781, the two went from James to Samuel’s fort, and 
upon their journey they were attacked by the Indians. 
The right arm of Capt James Estill was broken by a 


shot from the Indians, and though he was so seriously 
wounded, he did not fall. Col. Samuel Estill killed two 
of the Indians with one shot. During the fight, a large 
Wyandotte Indian made a dash at a small Dutchman, 
named Boyers. Boyers ran with a loaded gun and 
shouted, “Shoot, Sam, shoot.” “Shoot yourself, you son 

of a - , my gun is empty,” shouted Estill. Boyers 

turned and shot the Indian just as the Indian threw his 
tomahawk at him. The Indian, however, missed his 
aim, and Boyers came out all right. 

About the 19th of March, 1782, Jane Guess, a twelve- 
vear-old girl, came to the fortification to tell a dream 
that she had. She dreamed that the Lord had built a 
ladder from earth to heaven for her to go up on. After 
breakfast, she took “Dick” and went out in the woods 
to tap a sugar tree. The Indians took after her and 
she ran towards the fort, but before she could reach it 
they caught her, killed her and dragging her behind a 
brush pile, they scalped her. The women in the fort 
witnessed the deed and their shouts of “Bun, Jenny, 
run,” were simply awful. A negro man named Monk 
was hauling wood to boil the water. The Indians asked 



ESTILL MONUMENT 







History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


5 


him how many men there were in the fort. He replied, 
“Forty.” They then killed all the stock that was on the 
outside and fled. The fort had only four old men in it. 
(’apt. James Estill had taken his little army of about 
twenty-five men to Estill County the day before to look 
in the sand for Indian tr icks. The Indians had crossed 
at the mouth of Red River. They failed to meet and a 
messenger was sent from his fort to tell him what had 
transpired there. He then took his command and fol¬ 
lowed them to Little Mountain in Montgomery County. 
The faithful boy Monk took Capt. Estill’s horse and 
hid behind a tree from the Indians. Capt. Estill ordered 
his lieutenant to form in the rear while he attacked 
them in front. His order, for some reason, was not 
obeyed. Capt. Estill, with half of his men, made their 
attack. A Wyandotte Indian rushed on him while he 
was weak from the effects of his broken arm, his fatigue 
of traveling and his bold and daring fight. His gun 
was empty and he was thereby unable to overcome the 
Indian, who overpowered him. He was the last white 


man to fall. When he was killed bv the Indian, Joseph 
Proctor slew the Indian. That put an end to the fight. 
Of all the men who engaged in the fight, only three re¬ 
mained to tell the tale. These were Joseph Proctor, 
unhurt: James Berry, thigh broken; William Irvine, 
shot through the lungs. The fidelity of the slave Monk 
deserves mention. He carried James Berry on his hack 
to Booncborough, twenty-five miles. He was accorded 
his freedom and enjoyed a long life with his former 
master, Wallace Estill. 

Accompanying herewith is a picture of a statue 
erected to the memory of Capt. Estill in the Richmond 
cemetery. 

Sad to admit, the valiant Joseph Proctor is buried in 
the “old grave yard” at Irvine, but it is doubtful whether 
his grave could be discovered. 

The Kentucky River flows through Estill County 
from the southeast to the northwest, a distance of about 
thirty-five miles. Besides being a stream of great value 
to the agriculturists, and a stream of remarkable beauty, 



ICE GORGE 


it is extremely useful as a means of transportation of 
saw logs, tics, staves, coal, etc. 

Notwithstanding Estill has the advantage of the L. 
& A. railroad, there are thousands upon thousands of 
logs that are floated down the river at each tide. The 
river is one of the most beautiful in the United States. 
Bounded on cither side by high peaks of the Cumberland 
range of mountains, it affords views incomparable for 


beauty. Then, upon its margin, grow flowers of rare 
beauty and delicacy in great profusion. Sometimes, in 
the winter, the river freezes over. Accompanying here¬ 
with is a view of an ice gorge that occurred in the Ken¬ 
tucky River Inst February. The view is at the mouth 
of Station Camp Creek, just above Irvine. 

The following streams of water are tributary to the 
Kentucky River in this county: Red River, Station 










6 


History of Irvine and Estill County. Kentucky 


Camp ('reck. Buck Creek, Cow Creek, Hardwicks 
Creek, Drowning; Creek, Clear Creek and other minor 
tributaries. 

The Kentucky River is being locked and dammed 
and it is expected that a dam will be located at or near 
Irvine during this year. Of course that will enable 
steamboats to run all the year round and will be of great 
advantage to shippers of any kind of freight. 

An Indian camp was discovered on the waters of 
what is known as Station Camp Creek, from which the 
name was given to the stream. It was at this camp that 
the powder used by the Indians in this vicinity was 
manufactured. 

The climate of Estill County is unexcelled anywhere 
in the world for health. Situated high and possessing 
no swamp lands, it is without those properties that 
breed disease. As an instance of the health of this 
county, we will say that in Irvine, the county seat, dur¬ 
ing the past year there has been but one death, and that 
was where a man dropped suddenly dead. That is a fact 
strictly confined to the town limits, but, of course, in the 
suburbs there have been other deaths. 

The southern part of Estill is rough and the land 
comparatively poor, but the river and creek bottoms are 
as rich as any land in the Blue Grass region. 

Corn is the principal product raised upon the farms, 
although there is cultivated a large supply of oats, grass, 
wheat and tobacco. In 1904 there was raised in this 
county 2(55,411 bushels of corn. 

There are quite a number of good cattle and hogs and 
horses raised here. In 1870 there were raised 3,920 
head of cattle; in 1904, there were raised 6,682 head; 
in 1870. hogs, 5,225: in 1904, 9,056; in 1870, horses, 
1,214 head; in 1904, 2,123 head. 

Coal and iron ore have been found in paying quanti¬ 
ties and of excellent quality. Lead ore has been discov¬ 
ered, but so far not in sufficient quantities to pay for 
working it. 

In relation to the iron found in this county, we will 
quote a short extract: “The Red River Iron District 
is mainly confined to Estill County. The iron ores of 
the region produce iron of unsurpassed excellence. The 
first iron works in the county were located on Red 
River, in the northeast corner, about 1810, and em¬ 
braced a blast furnace, knobling fire and forge. About 
1830 the Estill steam furnace was built, ten miles south¬ 
east, on the mountain which divides the waters of the 
Red River from those of the Kentucky, and the smelt¬ 
ing discontinued at the furnace on Red River; at the 
same time the works at the “forge” were greatly im¬ 
proved for the manufacture of bar irons, blooms, nails 
and castings. The Red River Iron Works soon became 
celebrated for the good quality of the metal produced. 
About 1840 a new rolling mill supplanted the old forge, 
and.coal from near the Three Forks of the Kentucky 
River was employed as fuel; this coal was flat boated 
from Beattyville down the river fifty miles, wagoned 


rine miles up Red River to the iron works; it was not 
found suited to make good iron, and its use was aban¬ 
doned. About 1860 the manufacture of iron at the 
mill was discontinued. In 1865, ‘The Red River Iron 
Manufacturing Company’ was chartered and organized 
with a cash capital of $1,000,000, which sum was actu¬ 
ally expended in the purchase of all the estate belonging 
to The Red River Iron Works, and in the improvement 
of that property. The works at the old forge on Red 
River were not revived, but the mills there were rebuilt 
and improved. Estill Furnace was put in blast in May, 
1866, many buildings erected, turnpike roads built and 
the iron wagoned eight miles to Red River, and shipped 
by flat boats. In 1868, the company began and in less 
than two years completed two of the largest charcoal 
furnaces in the world, with inclined planes, tramways, 
macadamized roads, mills and shops, and homes for 
over one hundred families, employing 1,000 men for 
more than a year. A town was chartered at the new 
furnace called Fitchburg, after the two brothers, Frank 
Fitch, the general superintendent, and Fred Fitch, the 
secretary and treasurer. In 1869, the iron from Estill 
Furnace was diverted from the Red River route, and 
wagoned three miles to Fitchburg: thence with the 
product of the two great furnaces, which went into blast 
March 4, 1870, taken bv a new tramway six miles to 
Scott's I anding, on the Kentucky River, near the 
mouth of Millers Creek. In 1871, nearly 10,000 tons 
of pig iron were turned out, valued at $600,000.” 

Now, such being the fact, that these mountains are 
still here; that iron ore is just as plentiful as in the 
days of Fitchburg; that the iron produced from this 
ore is acknowledged to be the finest in the world; that 
we now have railroad facilities for transportation that 
were not in existence at that day; that the Kentucky 
River is going to be locked and dammed in the space 
of perhaps a year: why is it not a field for investment? 
Why would it not be a source of immense revenue? 
One reason that Fitchburg collapsed was because of the 
expense and danger of transportation. Many a sand 
bar on the Kentucky River has beeh the deposit of 
boats of pig metal. 

We predict that in a very short period these fields will 
again be opened and worked. 

As to coal in Estill County, while it is true that there 
are not at present many mines operated, yet, there can 
be no doubt that the coal mines of Estill County will 
prove to be very valuable. The development along that 
line has been retarded on account of the lack of trans¬ 
portation. Now things will be different. 

The real interest of Estill County, however, outside 
of her farming interests is her timber products. There 
are vast forests, which have never yet been touched. 
One who is not infomied upon that subject naturally 
concludes that on account of the many thousand logs 
that have been cut in this county in the last twenty-five 
years, there must of necessity be a shortage in the pro- 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


7 


duct ion. Notwithstanding that fact, lumber men have 
informed me that it will require years for the produc¬ 
tion to become worthless. 

The variety of timber in this county is unusually 
fine. We have some little walnut, the fact being that 
that variety is almost extinct. We have oak, poplar, 
hickory, ash, lynn, cherry, sugar tree, pine, cedar, and 
almost every species that is common to the mountains 
of the state. And the quality is unsurpassed. The saw 
mill at this place receives orders from Liverpool, Berlin 
and other European points. The saw mill at Irvine 
supplies the Pullman Palace Car Company with a 
greater amount of material than any other one mill in 
the state of Kentucky. What a tine opportunity for 
factories of any and every kind. 

Why not establish right here wagon factories, furni¬ 
ture factories, coffin factories, stave factories — in fact, 
anv kind of factory, where you can obtain the material 
without the cost of shipping it? Why would it not 
pay any company thus engaged to examine our products? 

Estill County is fortunate in being blessed with nu¬ 
merous churches and school houses. Every denomina¬ 
tion almost is represented, except perhaps the Catholics 
and one or two Protestant denominations. The people 
arc as quiet and orderly as in any county in the state 
of Kentucky. Among the noted divines who have been 
reared in this county we refer to Steven Noland, a 
Methodist and a powerful man. Rev. Win. Rogers, a 
member of the Christian Church, died at the age of 
seventy-seven years. He left 207 grand children. He 
preached forty years, during which time he baptized 
2,052 people. 

While it is true that morality prevails in this county, 
it is equally true that crime and vice exist. There has 
been two hangings bv mobs in this county since its or¬ 
ganization; .Tcsse Crow was hung by the Ku-Klux-Klan 
for killing a young man by the name of Titus at a dance. 
Alex Richardson was hung by a mob for murdering Mrs. 
White. 

Since the organization of Estill County there have 
ht*en within its borders three legal hangings. The first 
was that of Edward William Hawkins, on the 29th day 
of May, 1857: the second was that of Joe Stone: the 
third was of William Puckett. 

The hanging of Hawkins was attended with the 
greatest possibly conceived interest on account of the 
notorious character of the culprit. Hawkins was born 
in the Forks Precinct of Estill County ami at a very 
early age manifested a disposition not to work, and 
began stealing. Later on in life he began to steal 
horses, and finally connected himself with a gang of 
horse thieves that operated in Illinois, Missouri and 
Kentucky. He made several trips across that territory, 
carrying stolen horses with him. He was hung for 
the murder of Messrs. Land and Arviue, two 
deputy sheriffs of Estill County, who luul arrested 
him at Beattyville, Lee County, and were escorting him 


hack to Irvine. He was riding behind Mr. Land 
when he threw his arms around him and grasped his 
pistol, with which he shot and killed him. Thereupon 
Mr. Arvine, who was riding in advance, turned, 
and Hawkins shot and killed him. He imme¬ 
diately took to the woods in flight. Officers and citizens 
in great numbers pursued him, hut could not find him. 
On one occasion, there was a large crowd in pursuit and 
Hawkins was on the road just a little in front of them. 
He saw that he would he overtaken, and with remark¬ 
able presence of mind, he pulled off his coat and began 
laving up a fence just as though he was a farmer at 
work on his place. As the party passed him, the leader 
said, “Say, boys, when you see Hawkins you will find a 
man that looks like that.” He traveled for several days, 
crossing the Ohio River into that state. One night a 
party, still after him, discovered him by the side of a 
log fi re out in the woods. They demanded his surren¬ 
der, but, although they numbered about thirty, and he 
was unaccompanied by any one at all, they were afraid 
to come upon him until he threw his pistols down and 
assured them he would not hurt them. He said he 
was just tired of running around and decided to sur¬ 
render. They brought him to Irvine, Ky., and after 
a trial he was sentenced to he hung. After his sentence 
he wrote a history of his life, and it is full of crime ami 
sorrowful history. In it he describes his beginning, and 
urges the young hoys to take warning from him. He 
says he was married six times, living with each wife 
just a little while until he could bent her out of what 
property or money she possessed. One wife, he declared, 
he loved, hut his antipathy to work prevented him from 
earning an honest living, and he resorted to knocking 
men down on the streets in the city on dark nights and 
robbing them. Before long his wife found out almut 
it. and she was so sorely grieved that during the night, 
while he was asleep, she arose and went out in the yard 
anil hung herself. It is impossible to tell correctly the 
number of men he killed—perhaps a dozen. One poor 
farmer in Missouri had been to town to market and was 
riding home on his wagon. Hawkins knew he had some 
money and was walking along the road on which the 
driver was going and in the same direction. He asked 
the farmer to let him ride. The kind-hearted old man 
readily consented. Hawkins got up beside him and 
when they nrrived at a suitahle place in the road he 
shot the farmer and after robbing him threw him out 
on the ground, drove the wagon over his head to cover 
up the bullet wound, and then made the horses run away 
as though it had been an accident. At the time of his 
death he was only 21 years of age. lie was considered 
a handsome young man. bright, and might have accom¬ 
plished a great deal of good. In those days executions 
were not made with electricity or with the same kind of 
gallows that arc in use today. Hawkins was placed on 
his eoflin. which was upon an old road wagon, drawn by 
two oxen. He was driven about a mile and a half from 


8 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 



THE HAWKINS GALLOWS 


town, where there was erected a gallows. He made a 
speech before he was hung, in which he expressed regret 
at his course, and earnestly admonished the young men 
to live a different life. When the sheriff ordered the 
wagon to be driven out, Hawkins gave a leap and 
broke his neck. 

There were estimated to be five or six thousand peo- 



J. R PATES 


pie present. This picture represents the gallows, which 
still sands, with the exception that the cross-piece has 
been broken off. 

One of the most important enterprises in the county 
of Estill is the Louisville & Atlantic Railroad. This 
road runs from Versailles, in Woodford County, to Beat- 
tyville, Lee County, Ky., a distance of ninety-four miles. 
In the year 1888 Estill County voted a tax of $100,000 
for the building of this road, which, upon its comple¬ 
tion, was called the Richmond, Nicholasville, Irvine & 
Beattvville Railroad. One-half of the amount was to 
be paid upon the final completion of the road within a 
certain time. The wording of the contract was some¬ 
what ambiguous and consequently the county claimed 
they did not owe the road company any amount what¬ 
ever. The company admitted that fact so far as it ex¬ 
tended to the payment of the last $50,000 and the bonds 
for that amount were burned in front of the court house 
at Irvine. The county was then sued by the holders of 
the bonds for the other $50,000, but though the various 
courts thus far have decided in favor of the bondholders, 
no amount has been collected. The amount, together 
with the interest and expenses of litigation have made 
the amount claimed amount to nearly $100,000. The 
people generally throughout the county are opposed to 
the payment of the claim, and even the Louisville & 
Atlantic Railroad would object to the payment of it, as 
they would necessarily be compelled to pay their part of 









History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


9 


the tax ami would not receive a sniffle cent for them¬ 
selves. 

Notwithstanding this trouble, we are glad to have 
the railroad with us. It places us in connection witli 
the outside world. There are in our county inexhaust- 
nble resources consisting of timber, coal, coal oil and 
other commodities that are readily conveyed to market, 
whereas, there would necessarily be less improvements 
in the way of saw mills, factories and other interests, 
whereby employment is furnished to our citizens. 

The road is splendidly managed. Capt. •!. |{. Pates, 
the Superintendent, who married the worthy daughter 
of Rev. J. B. McGinn, a minister of the Christian 
Church, well known throughout the state, is the soul 
of honor and the true exponent of success. The pic¬ 
ture of Capt. Pates herewith produced will lie recognized 
by his numerous friends. 

Mr. H. R. Smith, General Freight and Passenger 
Agent and Chief Clerk to the President, was bom in 
Irvine and is one of the city’s prides. At the age of 
seventeen years, he took up the study of telegraphy and 
becoming a master thereof, he was given the manage¬ 
ment of Panola Station. Being endowed with energy 
and true worthiness, he was advanced from position to 
position, until he attained the one he occupies. We hope 
to soon witness his further advancement. Mr. Smith’s 
photograph is presented. 



It will lie a difficult thing for any traveler to find more 
polite and attentive conductors than Messrs. Robert and 
Jo Harris They have been identified with the road ever 
since its inception and we hope they will long con¬ 
tinue to hold their positions. 

Another gentleman who is connected with the L. & 
A. Railroad is Mr. It. A. Woolums, the Soliciting Agent 
for that road. He is an affable and polite man, and is 
thoroughly conversant with the conduct of his business. 


Many a passenger rides over that road because it is un¬ 
der the management of Mr. Woolums. 

Among the many attractive features of Estill County, 
there is none greater than the Estill Springs. Situated 
about one-half mile from Irvine, it revels in the glory 
of the past no less than that of the present. It has for 
many years been known as the most |)opular summer 
resort in the state of Kentucky. Before the war, hun¬ 
dreds of visitors would come early in the spring, bring¬ 
ing their carriages and negroes, and would remain until 
the fall months drove them home. Henry Clay, it is 
said, “stood pat” in many a game of “draw" under the 
shade of the oaks that adorn the grounds. This is 
certainly the most charming summer resort in thi'se 
parts. Large and spacious buildings are there for the 
accommodation of guests. It boasts of the finest ball 
room in the state. Each year the proprietor employs a 
fine band of music from some of the Eastern cities, and 
when the evening shades begin to fall, they proceed to 
a rustic arbor, from which emanates sweet strains of 
music for the beguilement of the guests. Every night 
the ball room is thrown open and they lightly trip the 
tral-a-loo. The waters of these springs are most excel¬ 
lent in quality and variety. They have white, red and 
black sulphur, the finest chalybeate in the world — a 
great help to those who are atllicted with pulmonary dis¬ 
eases — limestone, and in fact every kind of water con¬ 
ceivable. The grounds are spacious and are surrounded 
with scenery that is unsurpassed for beauty in Italy. 
Bowling alleys, a tennis court, cards, in fact any and 
all kinds of amusement are furnished. We heartily rec¬ 
ommend this place to any one seeking recreation or 
health. 

We publish a picture of this beautiful spot. 

The bravery of the citizens of Estill County has be¬ 
come a by-word all over the state of Kentucky. Pos¬ 
sibly this is attributable to their record during the Civil 
War. When the war broke out, there was no section 
where the call to arms was more earnestly answered 
than in her borders. It is true that the sentiment of 
Estill’s people were somewhat divided, ami as a conse¬ 
quence, she supplied valiant soldiers for both sides. 
John Morgan had several volunteers, and they were as 
brave a lot of men as ever drew the sword. For the 
Federal army, Col. H. (’. Lilly organized a regiment of 
cavalry, called the 14th. There were numerous scatter¬ 
ing regiments that received volunteers from this county, 
but for true merit ami noble deeds there was no regi¬ 
ment in the entire army who performed their duties so 
successfully nml who endured more hardships than did 
the noble Old Eighth Kentucky, Infantry Volunteers. 

'Phis regiment was organized by Col. Sidney M. 
Barnes, who at that time was proprietor of the beautiful 




10 


History of Irvine"and Estill County, Kentucky 



ESTILL, SPRINGS 


summer resort the Estill Springs. He was also a law¬ 
yer of pronounced ability and a man of magnificent 
personal appearance. In August, 1861, upon numerous 
occasions he addressed the citizens of Estill, Madison 
and adjoining counties, principally held upon the occur¬ 
rence of drills, that were participated in by the Home 
Guards. He spoke of the necessity of better organiza¬ 
tion to protect ourselves from being run over by the 
Rebels. On the 14th of September a battalion of half 
a score of companies of Home Guards met at Texas, 
Madison County, Kentucky. The loyal citizens were 
there with baskets that teemed with good things to eat. 
Captains John C. Wilson and A. D. Powell, of Estill 
County, were present with their recruits. Enthusiasm 
waxed warm. It was not long afterwards before the 
entire requisite of numbers was obtained and the regi¬ 
ment made their headquarters at Estill Springs. The 
Colonel’s low rows of cottages were used as quarters for 
the men. The services of an experienced baker was pro¬ 
cured. He, however, was unable to attend to the wants 
of the entire regiment, and they formed themselves into 
messes or squads and did their own cooking. But this 
life of pleasure was to be shortly cut off. The first real 
trouble was the prevalence of the measles, which, while 
it resulted in the death of none of the men, they in¬ 
curred troubles s’bich were afterwards apparent. 


On the 13th of November ten companies were organ¬ 
ized with the following as officers : S. M. Barnes, Colo¬ 
nel : Reuben May, of Clay County, Lieutenant Colonel. 
Green B. Broadus, of Madison County, Major; John S. 
Clark, of Estill County, Adjutant, and Timothy Paul, 
of Clay County, Chaplain. 

Co. A — Captain; J. D. Mayhew; 1st Lieutenant, Wm. 
Ketchen. 

Co. B — Captain, A. D. Powell; 1st Lieutenant, J. 
Nea; 2nd Lieutenant, J. Blackwell. 

Co. C — Captain, John C. Wilson; 1st Lieutenant, 
Wm. W. Park; 2nd Lieutenant, Cassius M. Park. 

Co. D — Captain, R. B. Jameson; 1st Lieutenant, J. 
P. Gumm; 2nd Lieutenant, Thos. Carson. 

Co. E — Captain, R. B. Hickman; 1st Lieutenant, 
C. D. Benton; 2nd Lieutenant, Perry Nickolls. 

Co. F — Captain, John B. Banton; 1st Lieutenant, 
Barton Dixon; 2nd Lieutenant, Newton Hughes. 

Co. G — Captain, L. C. Minter; 1st Lieutenant, Caleb 
Hughes; 2nd Lieutenant, Winfield S. Spencer. 

Co. H — Captain, Rhodes Winburn; 1st Lieutenant, 
Wade B. Cox; 2nd Lieutenant, T. J. Wright. 

Co. I — Captain, Wm. McDaniel; 1st Lieutenant, - 

Crooks; 2nd Lieutenant, - Amy. 

Co. K — Captain, Henry Thomas; 1st Lieutenant, 
Wesley Stewart; 2nd Lieutenant, Wm. Smallwood. 












History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


11 


' * j 



RAISING THE FLAG OF LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN 


About tlio 2fith of November, Col. Barnes received or¬ 
ders from Gen. Thomas to break camp ami march to 
Lebanon. On the 27th the ladies of the town of Irvine 
presented their dear friends of the 8th with a magnifi- 
eent silk flat;. The presentation was made to the entire 
regiment, who were drawn lip in dress parade, by Joseph 
Clark, brother of Adjutant John S. Clark. His address 
was inspired with eloquence and was replete with many 
a noble expression. He closed his speech with the ad¬ 
monition, “Carry that Hag to victory; never let it he 
deserted or dishonored by brave Kentuckians.” Loudly 
the army exclaimed, “Never! Never!” They then gave 
three rousing cheers for the ladies of Old Estill. 

The next morning they started on their journey, 
while a drizzling rain was falling. Many of the boys 
thought their hardships had surely commenced; but. 
alas, their after experiences told them how much they 
could suffer. 

Were I to undertake to narrate all the brave acts of 
this regiment, it would fill a history much larger than 
this one. They marched into the midst of the fray in 
Tennessee, Georgia and other Southern States which 
were engaged in their bloody war. They wore exposed 
to the roughest weather; they were often short of pro¬ 
visions; they engaged in many bloody battles, but in 
not a single one of them did they falter or Hesitate to 
do their duty, even at the risk of their own lives. At 
the buttle of liookout Mountain, for instance, the gen¬ 
eral had his army drawn into line, and he asked who 


would volunteer to plant the Union flag on top of the 
mountain. While the entire army, standing for a time, 
realizing the danger—the almost absolute certainty of 
death—Captain John C. Wilson, of Estill County, bold¬ 
ly stepped forward, followed by five of bis fellow countv- 
men and fellow soldiers. These six men ascended the 
mountain and were the first to spread the banner to 
the breeze. Accompanying herewith is a cut of that act. 

Again at the battle of Slime’s River, after a hard 
light and after I icing driven back, the flag that had been 
presented to the 8th Kentucky by the Irvine ladies was 
being curried bv 'I'. Edgar Park, who was color liearer. 
Three times the staff was riven bv cannon halls and the 
flag itself literally torn into slmsls bv the balls of the 
enemy. Color Bearer Park was the last man to leave 
the field, as he remained behind to gather up the rem¬ 
nants of the flag and prevent its capture. He was com¬ 
plimented by the officers for his bravery and afterwards 
was promoted to the position of Adjutant. 

In the House of Representatives of the State of Ken¬ 
tucky, March 2, ISfiJ. Messrs. Cleveland and Burnam 
were appointed a committee to receive flags of Kentucky 
troops. At noon, Mr. Wickliffe, Secretary of State, 
appeared with the storm-tossed and war-worn flags of 
several Kentucky regiments, amongst which was that of 
the 8th Kentucky, with a message from the Governor, 
giving a brief history of them. Referring to the flag in 



G. EDGAlt PARK 











12 


Hisiory of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


question, he said: "It will be observed that the colors 
of the Eighth Regiment (Col. Barnes) is almost com¬ 
pletely destroyed. It was upheld amid showers of shot 
and shell by Edgar Park, Company C, until the missiles 
of the foe had pierced again and again its every fold. 
Finally the staff was struck and shivered to pieces. The 
enemy was drawing close around the undaunted stand¬ 
ard bearer. The broken staff could no longer be grasped, 
but he quickly gathered the remnants of the flag and 
bore them rapidly to those who so nobly defended it, 
with an intrepidity rarely equalled and never sur- 

Herewith we present a picture of the hero, T. Edgar 
Park. 

We could present subject after subject of unparalleled 
bravery by almost every member of the 8th Kentucky, 
but we leave it to the noble-hearted survivors to tender 
to their fallen dead and living brave the honor that is 
due them. 

Capt. Jas. A. Moore, of Estill County, Kentucky, was 
Captain of Co. D, 4th Kentucky, Col. Fry commanding. 
He served during the entire war and was engaged in 
many severe conflicts. He was captured at Atlanta, Ga., 
and after confinement in prison for a period of about 
four months, he escaped and walked the whole distance 
from Columbia to Nashville, Tenn., where he rejoined 


his troops. Mr. Moore is a thorough Republican. He 
has never sought an office, but he may be accounted upon 
to be “there” at every election. He is now 68 years of 
age, and has the satisfaction of knowing he possesses 
the esteem of all who. know him. 

Another instance of the loyalty of Estillites: August 
31, 1847, Capt. W. P. Childs organized a regiment to go 
to Mexico. We are informed that there is but one mem¬ 
ber of that company still alive in Estill. That is Mr. 
William Beilis. 

County Judges of EstiU County, Kentucky. 

A. W. Quinn, two terms. 

Robert Riddell, two terms. 

E. L. Cockrill, one term. 

J. C. Wilson, otoe term. 

E. L. Cockrill, one term. 

E. L. Cockrill, one term. 

Robert Fluty, one term. 

W. B. Benton, one term. 

W. B. Benton, two terms. 

W. W. Park, one term. 

A. J. Tharp, one term. 

IV. H. Lilly, one term. 

J. W. Muncie, one term. 

0. K. Noland, two terms. 


IRVINE 



RYINE, the county seat of Estill County, 
Kentucky, is situated in latitude 37 de¬ 
grees, 43 minutes; longitude 6 degrees, 53 

_ minutes. Its population in 1830 was 91; 

in 1860, 234; in 1900, about 1,000. 

The town was organized in December, 1811, and was 
sold to the Justices of the Peace of Estill County by 
Green Clay for the purpose of erecting a town. 

We below copy the deed made by Mr. Clay of the 
property. It is unique and will doubtless interest you. 


This Indenture made this the 15th day of Decem¬ 
ber, 1811, between Green Clay of the County of Madi¬ 
son and state of Kentucky of the one part; & Peter 
Evans, Partlett Woodward, Jones Hay, Henry Beatty, 
William McCreerv, Jesse Cobb, Pattersen Griffith & 
Robert McFarland Gentlemen Justices of the'Peace in 
and for the County of Estill for the time being and for 
their successors of the other part witnesseth, that for 
the special purpose of establishing and improving a town 
at Estill.Court House and adjoining around the publick 
square the said Green Clay doth hereby transfer and 
convey to flic said Justices of the Peace for the said 
County of Estill and their successors for the time being 


twenty acres and one-half acre of land situated lying 
and being in the said county around the publick square 
on which the court house for the sd county of Estill 
now stands in trust to be by said Justices layed off and 
established a town by the name of Irvine agreeable to 
the plan of lots & streets herewith filed and annexed 
without any alteration or departure from the said plan 
without the said Clays consent first had; and bounded 
as follows Beginning S 50* W 24 poles from the south¬ 
west corner of the publick ground thence N 10* W 44 
poles thence N 80-' E 60 poles thence S 10* E sixty poles 
thence S 80* W 60 poles thence N 10* E sixteen poles 
to the beginning excluding the publick square contain¬ 
ing two acres which is within the outlines of the cources 
& distances aforesaid to have and to hold the said twen¬ 
ty acres and a half acre of land with its appertainances : 
to the said Justices of Estill County and their suc¬ 
cessors for the time being upon the following trust 
to wit: that the said twenty and a half acres of land 
bounded as aforesaid shall be vested in trustees of said 
town of Irvine to be by them sold at public auction for 
the best price that can be had on twelve months credit 
taking land with sufficient security of the purchasers 
payment of the money the amount the sale shall be for 
the use and benefit of said City bis heirs and assigns 
& each lot when exposed to sale shall be cried two min- 







History of Irvine and Estill County. Kentucky 


13 


utcs at least after the last bid before struck off and sold 
between noonday and sun setting; all of which lots shall 
be sold within two years from the date of this deed ae- 
cording to law & the terms herein and said Green Clay 
for himself his heirs &c do warrant & forever defend the 
said twenty and a half acres of land to the said .Justices 
of the Peace their successors for the time being upon 
the trust aforesaid against himself his heirs executors 
«St administrators & against all & every other person or 
persons claiming by through or under him or them In 
testimony whereof I have hereunto set mv hand and 
seal the day and year first above written. 

GREEN CLAY. (Seal) 

It is one of the most beautiful towns of its size in 
the state of Kentucky. Nestling at the base of the Cum¬ 
berland Mountains, it is surrounded bv a range of the 
same, that is at all times of the year covered with a 
foliage that presents a charming view. On the North¬ 
west is Sweet Lick Knob, from whose summit may be 
witnessed a view of magnificent splendor. During the 
Civil War, when the battle of Richmond was being 
fought, many of Irvine’s citizens ascended Sweet Lick 


ing upon three different occasions. On the East side 
of the town is Mt. Minerva. Its name was given to it 
by E. C. Park, in honor of Mrs. Minerva Curtis, whose 
home was situated at its base. During the Civil War 
the Federal soldiers took possession of this mountain 
and stripping it of its foliage, erected fortifications upon 
its top, it commanding the entrance to the town on all 
sides, and Irvine being a gate way to the South, it was 
often invaded by the Southern heroes. 

On one Sunday afternoon, in the year 1865, the old 
corrt house fell to the ground. No one was about it, 
consequently no one was injured. In 1867, the county 
appropriated twenty thousand dollars to the erection of 
a new one, which amount was afterwards increased. To¬ 
day Irvine boasts of one of tbe best court houses in a 
town of its size in the state. Picture accompanies. 

The old jail was torn down in the year 1867 and a 
ucw one erected at a cost of $10,000. 

Right here I wish to say in behalf of Estill County, 
that the number of “boarders” are far short of what is 
usually the case in counties the size of Estill. 



ESTILL COUNTY COURT HOUSE 


Knob, from whose summit could be seen the smoke of 
the battle and plainly could be heard the reports of the 
muskets. Visitors to Estill Springs consider the climb¬ 
ing of the mountain one of the features of their visit. 
On the North is situated Mt. Henry. So named in 
honor or a citizen of Estill County, whose home graces 
the top of the peak. While the sides of this mountain 
are not so abrupt as of Sweet Lick Knob, the view is 
just as gorgeous. When the atmosphere is clear, tbe 
sight embraces Powell and Clark Counties. At its base 
is quite a rendezvous for foxes. The State Fox Hunters' 
Association have made this place their annual gather- 


In October, 1861, the guerrillas raided Irvine ami 
burned the jail, releasing four prisoners. They then 
plundered the town. 

Irvine has been repeatedly the victim of (ires. 
Scarcely a business house in town but what has been 
burned. However, of late it seems that better fortune 
prevuils in that respect, or |icrhnps it is because the 
buildings are of a better quality. 

On the south side of this romantic, village winds 
the Kentucky River. One would have to travel ninny 
a mile ami visit many a country to obtain a more 
picturesque ami lovely view than is afforded from the 









14 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 



SOUTH END OF MAIN STREET 


smith end of Main Street. The streets of this town are 
wide and regularly laid out. On either side of the 
streets are observed a fine row of maple trees, which, in 
the summer season, not only greatly ornament the town, 
but conduces largely to its comfort. The streets are 
lighted with gasoline lamps, but a proposition has been 
submitted to the City Council to furnisn electric lamps, 
Which will in all probability be accepted. Besides, there 
has been discovered on White Oak, about three miles 
from town, natural gas, and it is expected to he piped 
to town for heating and lighting purposes. 

The town of Irvine is favorably known for its morali¬ 
ty and Christianity. There are in the town three 
churches for whites and one for the colored population. 
The Methodists have just completed a handsome brick 
structure which is a great acquisition to the other beau¬ 
tiful features which characterize it. Rev. J. W. Jack- 
son is pastor at this time. The Christian Church pos¬ 
sesses a beautiful building. The Rev. Mr. Baugh is 
its present minister. The Presbyterian Church also 
own their edifice, but as their numbers are few, they 
have not at this time a regular preacher. -The Metho¬ 
dists and the Christians each conduct successfully a 
Sunday school. I Jr. T. Park Gardner is and has been 
for years the Sunday school superintendent of the Meth¬ 
odist Sunday school, and O. W. Witt is the superintend¬ 
ent of the Christian Sunday school. 

Irvine lias a splendid public school building and for 
a period of about seven months in the year there is 
taught a good school. We are happy however to an¬ 


nounce that there has been made arrangements for a 
wonderful improvement in the school. A proposition 
was made to the citizens of Irvine bv the Presbyterian 
Church that if they would subscribe five thousand dol¬ 
lars and a suitable-site, they, the Presbyterians, would 
establish and maintain a college here. This was prompt¬ 
ly accepted and complied with, the money being sub¬ 
scribed and the old seminary plot donated. The founda¬ 
tion has already been laved and when the spring months 
open up work will he resumed and the college will be 
completed, thus affording the finest opportunity for edu¬ 
cating the young people of our town and county, be¬ 
sides others from other counties. 

Three splendid physicians practice here and two 
denGsts. 

There are in Irvine twelve stores, which carry a splen¬ 
did line of goods, which are sold at reasonable prices, 
thus making a first class home market. For a list of 
the lead ing merchants, see advertisements in the last 
of this book. The Kentucky Poplar Company are own¬ 
ers of perhaps the best saw mill on the Kentucky River. 
It is operated by an able management. (See ad.) 

The Deane Tie Company of Louisville have their 
headquarters at this place and do a large business. The 
Cincinnati Cooperage Company owns a plant, which 
gives employment to a large number of men, and is con¬ 
sidered a benefit to our town. The Appelaehian Gas 
Co. have their office here and are engaged in sinking 
wells about three miles from town. They have thus 
far sunk two wells, both of which are gas producing. 









History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


15 



THE OIL I'I ELDS 


Tho Estill Oil and Gas Company have offices in this 
place. The Irvine bar consists of nine members. 

In Irvine there arc two hanks. The bank of W. 1'. I>. 
Williams & Son is a prosperous institution. It has a 
capital stock of $10,000 and a deposit of more than 
$148,000. For further information, see advertisement. 
The Farmers' Bank is recently organized. 

There arc three saloons in town. They pay a city 
tax of $500 per annum. They are orderly and well con¬ 
ducted establishments. Local option has, however, been 
voted, and as soon as the license of the saloon-kec|iers 
expires, whisky will no longer he sold in our town. 

There are two barber shops: one is conducted by a 
white man, Leonard Stacy, and the other by Home Cali- 
niese, colored, who has operated it for several years, and 
will give you “a clean shave.” 

There arc two blacksmith shops, one shoe shop and 
one grist mill; also one splendid brick yard, operated 
by Jas. Stevens. 

'Phe town is governed by a hoard of five trustees, a po¬ 
lice judge and one policeman, who occasionally employs 
a deputy. 

Irvine boasts of a good membership in Fraternal So¬ 
cieties. There is a lodge of F. and A. M., n lodge of Odd 
Fellows, a lodge of Knights of Pythias. There is a 
movement now to organize a lodge of Red Men. 

Irvine was laid out and chartered as a town in 181?. 


It was named Trvine in honor of Col. William Irvine, of 
Madison County, who had some interests in Estill Coun¬ 
ty. lie was a warm friend of Col. James Estill, for 
whom the county was named, and was with him in many 
adventures with the Indians. He was with Col. Estill 
in the battle with the Indians in Montgomery County, 
in which Col. Estill was slain and Col. Irvine received 
a wound. The first house built in Irvine that is now 
in existence was either the brick house now occupied by 
Mrs. M. P. Gardner or the brick house now occupied by 
Mrs. Flora Bushev. Mrs. Gardner’s house was built by 
a man bv the name of Strong. He was a school teach¬ 
er — the first one ever in Irvine. This house was after¬ 
wards the property of Rohert Clark. The house in which 
Mrs. Bushev resides was built by Ben Bawling, father 
of Esfpiire D. B. Rawlins, of White Oak, recently de¬ 
ceased. Ben Rawlins was a manufacturer of hats. 
These he would make of wool and fur and would then 
strap them on his hack and travel through the country 
selling them. 

There are three hotels in Irvine. The Shepherd 
House, so named on account of its former owner, is op¬ 
erated by Samuel L. Tudor, a genial gentleman, ex- 
County Court Clerk,and who has been engaged in the 
hotel business at this same stand for twenty years. The 
other hotel is called St. Catherine. It is a new edifice, 
brick, three stories high, centrally located, and is the 








16 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


property of Williams Bros., and is operated by Chris¬ 
topher Park. (See ad.) 

From the time of the organization of the town in 
1813 np to the war it gradually grew until it reached 
the limit of ten hundred souls. The merchants bought 
and sold goods to the farmers and the farmers would 
come to Irvine for their necessities and to have their 
corn and wheat ground at the mill that still stands. 
This mill was the property of Green Clay, who leased it 
for ninety-nine years. It was stipulated that if it should 
be used for any other purpose it was to go back to the 
original owners. 

The history of Irvine from the beginning of the war 
is embraced largely in the history of Estill County, but 
it may not be uninteresting to refer to some of the lead¬ 
ing citizens who flourished at that time. First among 
that number, we will speak of John Park. He was born 
in Estill County in 1818 and lived on a farm until 
1858. He married Louisa Francis Hume, of Madison 
County, in 1840. In 1858 he moved to Irvine and took 
charge of the Park Hotel, which had been previously 
run by his brother, Elihu Park, who died with the chol¬ 
era in 1849. Mr. Park ran the hotel successfully until 
1860, when he entered into the mercantile business. He 
was a successful merchant and in partnership with his 
son-in-law, Mr. Joseph II. Gardner, sold more goods 
than any other firm up to that date. He was a devout 
Christian and with his wife, who was a member of the 
Baptist denomination, many a noble and charitable deed 
was performed. He died June 30, 1903. His wife 
died December 27,1894. 

M. B. Moseley, an old residenter, a merchant and a 
successful one, lived to a ripe old age, when he died. 
His wife, Mrs. Moseley, died about three years ago in 
Kansas City, Mo. 

M. M. Price, at first a farmer from Millers Creek, 
afterwards Circuit Gourt Clerk, died at an old age. 
His wife died about ten years ago in Indiana. 

W. J. Clark, one of Irvine’s most successful mer¬ 
chants, captain of the home guard that was organized 
during the war, went to Lexington and engaged in the 
wholesale grocery trade, accumulating a considerable 
sum of money, when he died. His wife, Matilda, died 
in Irvine in the year —— . They left a son, Jo, who 
died about two years ago in Lexington, and was ac¬ 
counted one of the wealthiest men in Fayette County, 
his wealth being estimated at one-half million dollars. 
His son, John, a gallant soldier. Major in the 8th Ken¬ 
tucky Infantry Volunteers, lost his health and died in 
Lexington. 

A. A. Curtis, one of Estill’s most prominent men, 
accumulated a considerable fortune. 

Dr. Ansil Daniel, one of the old land marks of this 
county, was born in Clark County in 1801, and after 
studying medicine he began the practice of his profes¬ 
sion in Irvine, which he continued until his death in 
1890. No man ever had more friends and more faith¬ 


fully worked for the good of the people than did Dr. 
Daniel. For several years he was associated in the prac¬ 
tice with Dr. McCreary, father of our United States 
Senator, Hon. James B. McCreary. When the latter 
named was Governor of the state, it became his duty to 
send a delegate from this vicinity to Chicago to attend 
some medical society. He promptly appointed Dr. 
Daniel, not only because of his merit, but because of 
his love for his father’s old partner. 

John H. Biddell, an eminent lawyer, was born in this 
county and a resident of this town until his death at 
about the age of fifty-eight years. 

Samuel F. Miller, one of the Judges of the Supreme 
Court of the United States. He practiced law in Irvine 
for a short time. 

John M. Price, a lawyer, who married a daughter of 
Elihu Park. He moved to Atchison, Kansas, where he 
ranked high in the seteem of the business men. He ac¬ 
cumulated a large fortune. He was consipcuous as a 
member of fraternal societies. 

Pornpey Herndon, born on Millers Creek. Afterwards 
moved to Irvine, where he served a term as Circuit 
Court Clerk. 

John Bruner, the veteran tanner, who afterwards 
moved to Clark County, where he died. 

Johnathan Tipton, the blacksmith of Irvine—strong, 
stalwart and a master of his trade. He lived to a ripe 
old age, when he was called to another world. 

Judge H. C. Lilly, one of the leading lawyers and a 
distinguished jurist. He was Colonel of the 14th Ken¬ 
tucky Cavalry. He accumulated a good deal of property 
before his death. 

Harry Moore, although not a resident of Irvine, was 
so closely allied to her interests. He was fortunate in 
his business affairs. 

John Wallace, a hard working, industrious man, lived 
to an advanced age, dying, left a name for industry and 
energy. 

Col. S. M. Barnes, a distinguished lawyer; Colonel 
of the valiant 8th Kentucky Begiment; proprietor of 
the Estill Springs. After the war was over he moved 
to Somerset, Ky., and afterwards went to Missouri, 
where he died. 

E. D. Stockton, a good citizen; a merchant of success. 
He made Winchester his home after the war, and after¬ 
wards moved to Richmond, Ky., where he died. 

J. II. Gardner, a prosperous merchant and a leader 
in business circles. He died leaving many mourning 
friends. 

A. D. Poell, a citizen of truth and honor. He served 
in the Mexican War and afterwards was Captain in 
the 14th Kentucky Volunteers. He died late in life. 

P. D. Scholl, who moved to Texas and died, leaving 
many friends. 

Andrew Shepherd, the farmer, tailor and afterwards 
pi’oprietor of the hotel that still bears his name. He also 
lived to quite an advanced age. 


17 


History of Irvine and Estill County, Kentucky 


W. T. B. Williams, one of the acknowledged leaders 
in the business affairs of the county. He was a suc¬ 
cessful man in his undertakings and died at his home 
in this town. 

John M. Park, a wealthy farmer. A devout Metho¬ 
dist. He moved to Madison County, where he died. 

1). B. Scholl, one of Irvine’s physicians. He was the 


father of A1 Scholl, who belonged to the 8th Kentucky 
Infantry, and died while in the army. 

H. W. Smith, a lawyer, a true Christian, a genial, 
kind-hearted man. He died at an old age. 

C. W. Friend, one of Irvine’s old merchants. He was 
successful in his business career and died at an old age. 


We will now close our history. W e hope 

it will be satisfactory to its readers and that they 
may consider it of sufficient interest to invest a lit¬ 
tle and send to their friends who hao removed to 
other States. The price is only 50 cents per copy. 



RESIDENCE OF XIIts. M. P. GARDNER 











c7V!r. and cTVlrs. J. H. Gardner. 



of Dental Surgery. He is now a successful practitioner 
at Irvine. Joseph Samuels Gardner married Miss Myrtle 
Williams, daughter of W. T. B. Williams. They now 
reside at Jacksonville, Florida, where they purchased ele¬ 
gant property. 

During the war of 1861-5 Mr. J. H. Gardner was ap¬ 
pointed quartermaster of the 8th Ky. Inf. Vol., but re¬ 
signed soon afterwards. Mr. Gardner was ever known 
as the friend of the poor and many prosperous citizens 
of Estill County can ascribe their prosperity to him. He 
was a consistent member of the M. E. Church, South, 
and a staunch Democrat. 

The accompanying picture is of his widow, who resides 
in the old homestead with her eldest son, T. Park. 
They have just reputation for charity and the entertain¬ 
ment of their many friends. Mrs. Gardner is also a 
member of the M. E. Church, South, and it is a pleasure 
to witness her devotion to the cause of Christ. 


Joseph H. Gardner was born in Virginia July 1, 1820. 
His father, Joseph H., was born in Boston, Mass., and 
his mother, Anna Maria Theresa Sophia Clotilda Delarge 
Raisont, was born in France, near Marsailles. His 
parents died when he was quite young. The first busi¬ 
ness enterprise of the subject of this sketch was selling 
goods at Salyersville, Magoffin County, Ky. In Novem¬ 
ber, 1848, he married Miss Mary J. Howerton, to which 
marriage were born Hamilton Reed, Henry William, 
Laura Eliza, Mary Rebecca, Joseph, Jennie Clark and 
Colin Grant ; only one of whom are now living, Laura 
Eliza. She became the wife Of Leslie Thompson, a 
grandson of Dr. A. Daniel. Mr. Gardner’s wife died 
April 15, 1865. Having moved to Irvine, Ky., Mr. Gard¬ 
ner entered into partnership with John Park in the sale 
of merchandise. On the 30th day of August, 1866, he 
married Miss Mary A., daughter of John Park. To them 
were born two children, T. Park and Joseph. Both of 
them are living. T. Park Gardner is a dentist, graduat¬ 
ing with the highest honors at the Pennsylvania College 












MR. AND MRS. JOHN PARK 



He was the real founder of that church in this town. He 
died at a ripe old age, June 20, 1903. No man ever 
lived in Estlll who had more friends and fewer enemies. 
He died the happy death of a Christian. 

The wife of John Park, Miss Louisa Francis Hume, 
was the descendant of one of the families of England, 
who were the possessors of great wealth. They are the 
legal heirs to a vast estate in that country, but unfortu¬ 
nately for the heirs, limitation has deprived them of the 
benefit. Hiss Hume was a great belle in her young days, 
her beauty, education, refinement and general excellence 
as a woman made her a universal favorite and much 
admired woman. She was the mother of eight children, 
and when I use the word "Mother,'’ I mean to express 
ail the term implies. Ambitious she was, and she as¬ 
pired to having her children educated to the highest 
attainment. She was a thorough Christian. She was a 
member of the Old Baptist Church. Her charities are 
well know to the poor of this vicinity. She was horn 
Jan. 14, 1820, and died Dec. 27, 1894. 

The remains of both of these departed ones are rest¬ 
ing in the beautiful Richmond cemetery. Peace to their 
ashew. 


No one who looks at these pictures can fail to recog¬ 
nize the nobility of character that existed in the lives 
of the individuals. John Park was born Jan. 12, 1818, 
on Station Camp, Estill County, Ky. His father was an 
early settler from North Carolina. He owned and culti¬ 
vated a farm on Station Camp Creek. Although he was 
himself uneducated, he gave his children the best op¬ 
portunities that those times afforded. John Park, the 
subject of this sketch, was the youngest son in a very 
large family. He attended the common schools in his 
neighborhood, often walking five or six miles through 
tne snows of winter to get knowledge. Being a bright 
young boy, he succeeded in acquiring a better education 
than most of his neighbors. In 1840, Nov. the 5th, he 
married Miss Louisa Francis Hume, one of the most at¬ 
tractive ladles in Madison County. They lived for a 
while on the farm of his father, and afterwards he bought 
the farm directly across the river from Irvine. Here he 
made money, and in 1858 he brought his family to Ir¬ 
vine, engaging in the hotel business. About the begin¬ 
ning of the war he embarked In the mercantile business 
with Mr. J. H. Gardner, afterwards his son-in-law. Hon¬ 
est dealing won for them the acme of success. They 
sold more goods than any firm in Irvine. He believed In 
giving his children a good education, and to this end he 
spent a good deal of money. He was a devout Christian. 















PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 
































RESIDENCE OF HON. J. F. WEST 


This beautiful residence is the home of Hon. J. F. 
West, whose picture is herewith presented. Mr. West 
lives a mile from the Irvine court house. He is regarded 
by the citizens of Estlll County as one of the most enter¬ 
prising and best citizens. He was born in Jackson Coun¬ 
ty, Ky., Dec. 20, 1852, and moved to Estlll ,County in 
1884. He lived on Station Camp Creek, in the capacity 
of a farmer, where he married a daughter of John P. 
Scrivner. To them were born four children, three of 
whom still survive. He married his last wife, Miss Lucy 
Norton, in 1890, by whom he is the father of five chil¬ 
dren, all of which are alive. 


Mr. West has always been a prominent citizen and one 
who is always ready to advance the interest of the peo¬ 
ple. He was, in 1884, elected as Representative from 
Estill and Lee Counties to the State Constitutional Con¬ 
vention. He was the father of the law restricting the 
poll tax to $1.50 per capita. At that time the poll tax 
in Estill County was $3.00 per capita. The benefit that 
he thus bestowed upon the masses served to increase his 
popularity. He served a term as Sheriff of Estill County, 
and proved himself to be a competent business man and 
an excellent officer. He is an extensive dealer In logs, 
ties and is a large farmer. 


FREDERICK WILLIAM OWEN 

Born at Watertown, Jefferson Co., N. Y., Jan. 20, 
1857. Acad. educ. Grad. Lowvllle Acad. Lewis Co., N. Y. 
Grad. M. D. Michigan Col. of Med. 1882. Passed Med. 
Exam. Brd. Va. Oct. 26, 1894. OElec. Fel. 1894. At¬ 
tended Sess. 1894. Memb. Wayne Co. Med. Sec. Detroit, 
Mich. Memb. Amer. Med. Assn. 1883, 1884, 1885. Co. 
Phys. Wayne Co. March, 1883-6, as such made over 400 
autopsies in criminal cases. Dem. Anat. Detroit and 
Mich. Cols, of Med. 1886, 1886, 1887-90. Papers—sev¬ 
eral, but have forgotten titles and dates. At this time 
member Ky. Med. AAssociatlon, member Powell Valley 
Med. Association, member Estlll County Medical Assn. 

Also author of Med. Work entitled “Post Mortems, or 
What to Look for: How to Make Them.” 


1883 1906 

When In Richmond Call Upon 

COVINGTON, ARNOLD & RRO.. 

WELL KNOWN GROCERS, 

WHO HANDLE THE LARGEST STOCK OF 

Groceries, Qucensware, Field Seeds, Sail, Lime and 
Cement, Flay, Com and Oats. 

When in need of any of these communicate with us for 
we give instant attention to all inquiries and guarantee the 
Lowest Market Price. 

GIVE US A TRIAL. THaT’S ALL WE ASK. 

COVINGTON ARNOLD & BRO., 

RICHMOND, KY. 







Kentucky River 
Poplar Company. 

Manufacturers and Dealers in 

YELLOW PINE, 

WHITE OAK, 

Car StocK and OaK Timbers. 



LUMBER YARD, KY. RIVER POPLAR CO. 



OFFICES: 


IRVINE, KY., 

FRANKFORT, KY., 
CHICAGO, ILL. 


SAW MILL, KY. RIVER POPLAR CO. 

W. J. ROBERTS . President 

M. HUGHITT, JR . Vice President 

D. K. JEFFRIES . Secretary and Treasurer 

This mill, one of the best on the Kentucky River, was 
founded in 1891 by J. G. Boltz. It was burned in 1899. 
Mr. Boltz retiring from the ownership, the mill became 
the property of D. C. Ingalls. He was succeeded by The 
Magann-Fawke Lumber Company, and they sold their 
Interest to the present owners, The Kentucky River Pop¬ 
lar Company. 


This mill supplies the Pullman Palace Car manufac¬ 
turers with more material than is furnished by any other 
mill in the state. 

Under the management of M. G. Wightman, a large 
supply of choice oak lumber was ordered to Liverpool. 
Upon its arrival, its excellent quality was discovered, and 
without any solicitation upon the part of the managers 
of the mill, it was placed upon exhibit and received a 
premium for being the best the world had ever pro¬ 
duced. So much for Estill County and the Kentucky 
River Poplar Company. 
























WAGERS’ 

The owner of this magnificent home is Mrs. R. P. 
Wagers. July 30, 186S. she was married to J. W. 
Wagers, a prosperous young business man of Estili 
County. He was one of the heroes of the valiant 8th 
Kentucky Regiment, and won especial honor in being 
one of the six heroes who planted the Stars and Stripes 
on Lookout Mountain in 1863. He was an esteemed 
business man of Estili County. After his death in 1889, 
the management of their extensive and valuable farm 



It. M. JOHNSON 


HEIGHTS 

devolved upon the widow, the present proprietress, Mrs. 
It. P. Wagers. She has given evidence of unusual ability 
and her farm, which is one of the richest in the state 
of Kentucky, has placed the happy family In splendid 
circumstances. 

The accompanying picture, called "Wagers Heights,” 
is an evidence of the thrift and good taste that belongs 
to the mother and her family. 


Born in Powell County, Ky., 10th of June, 1846, his 
parents moving to Estili County when he was 7 years old. 
Mr. Johnson as a boy lived on the farm with his parents, 
taking an active part in the farm life until the Civil War. 
at which time, not being old enough to enlist in the 
army, in September, 1861, enlisted in a government 
wagon train under Williams Smallwood as wagon 
master; went to Louisville to a corral on the Louisville 
& Nashville R. R.. worked there and broke mules with 
thirty other wagoners until each of their six-mule teams 
were broken. 

He drove from Louisville by way of Frankfort and 
Lexington to Richmond, Ky., there loaded with commis¬ 
saries and drove by way of the Two Log Mountains to 
Cumberland Gop. crossing Cumberland River at Cumber¬ 
land Ford, arriving at the gap a few days before George 
Morgan's retreat front that place. 

He was discharged from the wagon train the third day 
before Morgan's retreat from the Gap; returned to Estili 
County and stayed with his widowed mother that winter, 
making a crop for her In the season of 1862. He en¬ 
listed August 4, 1862. In the regular Fnlon army in Capt. 
Sylvester Isaac's Company E.. 14th Ky. Cavalry, served 
Ills time of enlistment out, and was discharged at Camp 
Nelson. Ky.. on the 24th day of March. 1 864. Cast his 
first vote for Abraham Lincoln for Ills second term as 
President at the November election. 1864, and has been 
an active politician and staunch Republican ever since. 
Was appointed deputy sheriff under J. F. West In 1893, 
but on account of slrknoss In family resigned. Was ap¬ 
pointed I'. S. storekeeper and guugcr under Hnrrison's 
administration. Was elected Jailer of Estili County in 
the year 1901, serving the full term, and was re-elected 
for the ensuing term of four years nt the November elec¬ 
tion. 1905. He has made a competent official and enjoys 
the confidence of the people. 





RESIDENCE OF JONAH WAGERS 


Jonah Park Wagers, oldest son of William H. Wagers 
and Eliza Park, was born April 11, 1860, on Station 
Camp Creek, about six miles south of Irvine. Having 
bought his freedom from his father for one hundred and 
fifty dollars, he, at the early age of eighteen years, en¬ 
tered the mercantile business, in which he has enjoyed 
phenomenal success. Honest and upright in all his 
dealings with the public, he has firmly established him¬ 


self and his business with everyone. The business has 
grown so rapidly that, besides the handsome store at 
Wagersville, where he keeps everything that is found 
in a modern, up-to-date store, Mr. Wagers is junior mem¬ 
ber of the firm of Wagers & Rice, at Rice Station, and 
has interests in two other progressive stores in Estill 
and Jackson Counties. He is also an extensive log and 
tie dealer, and one of Estill County’s foremost farmers. 



JONAH WAGERS’ STORE 




























RESIDENCE AND STORE OF F. R. DAVIDSON 


Tho owner and proprietor of this beautiful home and 
store house is Mr. F. R. Davidson, one of Irvine’s most 
successful and enterprising merchants. 

Mr. Davidson was born in Athens, Fayette County, 
Ky., May 5, 1851, where he lived until he was twenty- 
one years of age. While living at this place he was en¬ 
gaged in farming and also was a brick and stone mason. 
He left Athens and moved to Drip Rock, Jackson County, 
where he was employed in the mercantile business. Be¬ 
ing successful in the pursuit of his business, he desired 
u better field, and he accordingly came to Estill County, 
and in the year 1899 he came to Irvine, where he estab¬ 
lished a grand trade. Two yenrs ago he erected a large 


store house and this summer he connected with it a model 
dwelling. He carries a general line of goods nnd by his 
system of selling at low prices and handling good goods, 
he is recognized as a permanent institution of this place. 
In 1877 he married Miss M. E. Parsons, nnd to her he 
is indebted for a great portion of his success. They both 
profess their Christianity, being members of the Mis¬ 
sionary Baptist Church since he was seventeen years 
of age. To them were born five children - two boys and 
three daughters. The oldest son is acknowledged to be a 
fine mechanic, and the daughters are much admired for 
their beauty und sterling qualities. 























MR, P. A. LYON, 

President of the Company, whose picture is herewith 
presented, was horn in Scott County, Ky., Nov. 12, 1858, 
and received his education at Georgetown College. In 
1877 he married Miss Mamie P. Sinclair, and has an in¬ 
teresting family of two sons and two daughters. In 1890 
Mr. Lyon selected Beattyville as a good place to operate 
Insurance. He commenced business representing only 
one company. The Fireman's Fund. Energy and fine 
business tact enabled him to prosper until at this time 
they have incorporated their business under the title of 
F. A. Lyons and Son Company, and are the representa¬ 
tives of twenty-four leading companies. They operate 
Life, Fire, Tornado, Health and Accident, Employer’s Li¬ 
ability, Steam Boiler, Plate Glass and Fidelity Insurance. 
Mr. Lyon is a member of the Baptist Church, member 
of the Masonic order, and is a Knight of Pythias. His 
reputation as a business man is unexcelled by any one. 


CLARENCE MILLER 

The subject of this sketch, Clarence Miller, was born 
in Estill County on the 27th day of January, 1878. He 
was raised on a farm and attended the public schools 
until he was 16, when he began teaching. He entered 
State College at twenty, and would have graduated in a 
short time, but was nominated by the Republican party 
of his county for County Superintendent, without oppo¬ 
sition, and was elected the following fall without oppo¬ 
sition from the Democratic party, being barely old enough 
to be eligible at the time of his election. He began the 
study of law at leisure hours during his first term of 
office and finally went to C. U. College of Kentucky, 
where he graduated in law, attaining the highest honors 
of his class. He was re-elected County Superintendent of 
Schools by a majority which indicated that his first term 
proved satisfactory to the people of his county, and is 
now serving a second term. 


CHARLES \V. FRIEND 

The subject of this sketch, Mr. Charles W. Friend, was 
born in Prestonburg, Ky., Dec. 25, 1825, and lived to 
the age of 66. Coming to Irvine when a young man, he 
opened a mercantile establishment, whose success kept 
pace with the spreading reputation of its founder for 
honesty, probity and uprightness. Starting a poor young 
man, his success was due alone to his own untiring ef¬ 
fort and square dealing. There perhaps never lived in 
Estill County a man who enjoyed a more generous share 
of the sincere confidence and popular esteem of his fel- 
lowmen. His name has ever been synonymous with in¬ 
tegrity and morality. No man ever did more than Mr. 
Friend in his quiet but forceful way to uplift the stand¬ 
ard of citizenship of his town and county. Though he 
has been gone for a number of years, the influence and 
memory of his noble character and exemplary life live 
after him. 

In 1857 he married Rebecca Frances, daughter of Col. 
.1. H. Riddell, who with a daughter, Mrs. E. G. B. Mann, 
and two sons survive him. Mrs. Friend and sons, Chas. 
W. and Robt. R., reside at the old Friend home on Main 
Street. The two latter are prominent members of the 
local bar. 


During the two years he has practiced law he has built 
up a business that is highly satisfactory to himself and 
friends considering the short time he has been engaged. 
He is unmarried. 


MR. J. P. LYON, 

whose likeness we take pleasure in producing, was born 
at Georgetown, Ky., Jan. 28, 1879. He is a Mason, a 
Knight of Ppthias and a member of the Imp. Order of 
Red Men. He is universally popular and over the terri¬ 
tory through which he travels he possesses the esteem 
and confidence of his customers. He is bound to make a 
leader in his line. He is in partnership with his father, 
F. A. Lyon, at Beattyville, Ky. 



















RESIDENCE OK W. P. WILLIAMS 


This most charming residence is the admiration of our 
own citizens as well as of every stranger who visits our 
romantic town. It is the property of Mr. William P. 
Williams, Cashier of the banking establishment of W. 
T. B. Williams and Sons, Irvine, Ky. Although he is 
yet a young man, he is considered the “child of good for¬ 
tune.” He was born Aug. 31, 1878, at the present home 
of his mother. After he grew to the advanced age of a 
young man, he attended the Kentucky State College at 
Lexington, where he graduated with honor. Returning 
to his old mountain home, he accepted a position in the 
drug store and postoffice of his brother Thomas, which 


position he filled for a period of two years. Afterwards 
his father and brother, Thos. Williams, organized a bank 
known as W. T. B. Williams and Sons' bank, and this 
young man was elected to the position of cashier, which 
place he has filled for six years. His exeprience is large¬ 
ly responsible for the success of that institution. 

On January 21, 1904. he married the charming Miss 
Cordelia Jackson Bull, of Frankfort, Ky. She is the 
daughter of one of Frankfort’s leading merchants. Her 
presence in our town is regarded ns a great acquisition 
by our people. Mr. Williams is a member of the Elks, 
the Odd Fellows and is a Knight of Pythias. 


Judge W. H. Lilly^. 


Judge W. H. Lilly, one of our best known citizens was 
born in Powell County, but at a very early age moved 
to Estill, where he has since resided. He was born 
March 19, 1859. He received his education at schools 
in Irvine and at College Hill. After he had concluded his 
course of study he taught a public school at Irvine, at 
Cow Creek and at White Oak. He was an acknowledged 
fine educator. After an experience of that character, he 
commenced the study of law under his father, Judge H. 
C. Lilly, wide and favorably known as an accomplished 
lawyer. Completing his course, he entered Into partner¬ 
ship with hts father and they enjoyed a large practice 
throughout the eastern portion of the state. In 1889 


he married Miss Fannie Richardson, one of the beauti¬ 
ful daughters of Simpson Richardson, ex-Sberiff of Estill 
County. To them was born one son, Pleasant, n bright 
boy and one whom it is expected will make bis mark in 
the world. In 1887 Judge Lilly became the owner of 
the beautiful Estill Springs property. Judge Lilly Is 
possessed with nn Inventive mind. He has patented an 
air ship and Is now working upon a gravity motor, which 
he considers will be of great value when completed. 

Judge Lilly Is known as a man of honor and a firm 
believer in Truth. His clients can place the most implicit 
faith in him. He seems to have made for his guiding 
maxim, "Great Is Truth and will prevail.” 















LOUIS SCHLEGEL. HIS GALLERY AND HIS HOME AT RICHMOND, KY. 


LOUIS SCHLEGEL, Photographer. 

Was born in the Blue Alsacian Mountains, in France, 
coming to America when quite a child. He first located 
in Cincinnati, O., where he spent his early life. The 
love for the mountains and the quiet life caused the 
noise and bustle of city life to pall upon him. After 
learning the photographic profession he started out in 
search of a location, coming to Richmond in the year of 
1879, with the expectation of only remaining a year, 
and then moving to another location. But the congeni¬ 
ality, hospitality and appreciation of good photographs 
of the people of Richmond caused him to remain. As 
the years went by his trade steadily grew and he found 
himself becoming attached to the people of the city of 
his adoption. In 1894 he bought what seemed to most 
people a worthless old hillside on the outskirts of Rich¬ 
mond, and a year later, after having it cleared and a 
beautiful driveway made, built a palatial home. 

Finding his old location for his gallery becoming more 


and more inconvenient, in 1902 he bought a lot on Third 
street, a few doors from Main (his present location), and 
built the large and commanding structure shown in the 
illustration. Being his own architect, he designed his 
reception room, operating room, dark room and work¬ 
shop, all of which are arranged in the most up-to-date 
manner. For twenty-seven years Mr. Schlegel has been 
the leading photographer of Richmond and Madison 
County, and to his ability in this profession the photo¬ 
graphs in this book fully testify, as well as thousands of 
portraits scattered throughout the country. 

Being of an artistic temperament, he understands the 
art of posing and grouping his subjects to the best ad¬ 
vantage. His pictures have taken the highest prizes at 
photographic conventions where he has competed, ^s 
a citizen, he is one of our best. Honest, honorable and 
conscientious in all of his dealings with those he comes 
in contact. He has more than done his share to build 
up Richmond. 


LOUISVILLE TIN AND STOVE COMPANY. 


OFFICE AND SALESROOM, 621 WEST MAIN STREET, LOUISVILLE, KY 

MANUFACTURERS OF 

PROGRESS STOVES AND RANGES, STOVE PIPE AND ELBOWS, 

VENUS AND MARS STEEL RANGES, OIL AND GASOLINE TANKS, 

JUNO STEEL RANGES, PIECED TINWARE, 

GOLD DUST STEEL RANGES, JAPANNED TINWARE, 

AIR-TIGHT HEATING STOVES, STAMPED TINWARE, 

HOLLOWWARK, GRATES, ETC. SHEET-IRON WARE. 

WHOLESALE DEALERS IN 


Hardware, 

Wooden ware, 

Glassware, 

Ironware, 

Wire Goods, 
Refrigerators, 
Sewing Machines, 
Washing Machines 
Cane Mills, 
Evaporators, 

Show Cases, 
Computing Scales, 
Counter Scales, 
Platform Scales, 
Pocket Cutlery, 


Table Cutlery, 
Razors, 

Scissors and Shears 
Axes and Hatchets, 
Saws, 

Shovels and Spades 
Hoes and Rakes, 
Hay Forks, 

Manure Forks, 
Miners’ Supplies, 
Cartridges, 

Loaded Shells, 
Fishing Tackle, 
Farm Bells, 

Clocks, 


TIN PLATE, SHEET IKON. ROOFING, GUTTERING, Ac. 


Watches, Oil Stoves, 

Lamps, Gasoline Stov< 

Lanterns, Fruit Jars, 

Burners, Fruit Cans, 

Wicks, Filters, 

Wash Boards, Paper, 

Brooms, Paper Bags, 

Brushes, Pumps, 

Coal Hods, Freezers, 

Coal Vases, Wagons, 

Corn Planters, Velocipedes, 

Corn Knives, French Harps, 

Smoking Pipes, Ac., Ac. 

Coffee Urns, 

Rope and Twine, 

Write for Catalogue and Price List. 








.1. P. MILLER’S STORE 


John P. Miller, the proprietor of the accompanying 
business establishment, was born March 18, 1864, in 
Wisemantown, Estill County, Ky. He succeeded his 
father, Frank S. Miller, in the conduct of his present 
business in 1885. He lives in the same home in which 
he was born, but is at this time erecting a new and pala¬ 
tial residence. 

In the year 1888 “I was converted at a Masonic Altar 
in Irvine Lodge No. 137, F. and A. M. June 19th, 1 
quit the use of tobacco. On July 22nd, I was sanctified, 
and this date I am still saved and sanctified — kept by 
the power of God. Glory to His name. My occupation 


to support a good wife. Flora E., the daughter of Dr. M. 
P. Scott, of Estill County, and seven obedient, loving 
children, Frank, Anna, Cecil, Lizzie, Scottie, Ruth and 
Glen. 

You will see herewith my handsome store house, In 
which I carry a general line of merchandise—everything 
that' is usually kept in a country store, except tobacco 
and cards. I am also a dealer in railroad ties, tan bark 
and lumber. My trade mark is "Live and Let Live." so 
come and let us reason together that our lives may be 
long and prosperous on the land of Estill County and 
afterwards a home in heaven. “Meet me there.” 



It. C. ADAMS 


Prof. R. C. Adairs, whose picture accompanies this 
sketch, was born in Madison County. Ky., Aug. 16, 1869. 
In his childhood he gave evidence of remarkable musical 
ability. After he was grown he adopted the avocation 
of teacher of the Divine Art. He was eminently success¬ 
ful and since that time he has graduated with honor at 
Katannlng Conservatory at Katanning, Penn. Also ai 
Pittsburg, Pa., and at Philadelphia, Penn. Also at Mi¬ 
ami University, Oxford. Ohio. In 1904 he took the slate 
examination In Ohio and received a first class diploma. 

As an educator in music we extend the highest praise. 


J. W. TUTTLE. 


Amongst our prominent business men In Estill Coun¬ 
ty there ranks J. W. Tuttle, of Forks Precinct, Justice of 
the Peace, one of the most worthy. He was born April 
28, 1859, and was raised a farmer boy. He was not 
satisfied with a common education, so he devoted his 
energies to obtaining something more than ordinary. 
He. upon the completion thereof, taught several schools, 
to (he advantage of his pupils and to his own credit. 

He married Miss Malinda Wiseman, daughter of H. 
B. Wiseman, one of our most successful business men. 
To them were born four children. 

As an officer of the county, he has opposed the pay¬ 
ment of the railroad tax, and has thereby rendered him¬ 
self popular. 

As a business man, he Is a i access. 










RESIDENCE OF THUS. WILLIAMS 


The owner of this beautiful home is Mr. Thomas Will¬ 
iams, President of Williams and Sons' Bank. 

Mr. Williams is noted for his remarkable business at¬ 
tainments and phenomenal success in whatsoever he un¬ 
dertakes. A few years ago he was a poor boy, but 
characterized with indomitable energy and fine business 
tact, prosperity seemed to wait upon him. Today, be¬ 
sides being the President of the leading bank in our city. 


he is a large and successful dealer in railroad ties, tan 
bark, has extensive farming interests, and is our Circuit 
Court Clerk. He married in September, 1899 Miss 
Catharine Clark, a charming woman of Clark County. 

Their lovely home is often the scene of handsome en¬ 
tertainments and good cheer. They have the congratu¬ 
lations and good wishes of a host of friends. 



ST. CATHERINE HOTEL 


The best hotel in the state, according to the verdict 
of the traveling men (and they know), is the St. Cath¬ 
erine, a picture of which here appears. This is a three- 
story brick house, containing about forty rooms. It is 
the property of Williams Brothers. It is in the care 
and under the management of Mr. Christopher Park and 
his business-like wife, who are certainly experts in the 


management of a hotel. No want is known that is not 
promptly filled by the genial host and wife. 

Any one who can reach this hotel should not fail to 
spend their Sundays here. The proprietor keeps on hand 
sulphur water that is unexcelled by any in the state. 
With the fine mountain scener’ and the proximity to the 
river, this is a model summer resort. 























STORE OF DILLARD WILLIAMS 


Mr. Dillard M. Williams, the owner of this fine store 
house, was born Nov. 8, 1871, in Estill County. On Oct. 
9, 1902, he married Miss Ellen Baker, daughter of E. M. 
Baker, of K. X. Junction. They are the fond parents of 
a sweet little boy. 

Mr. Williams is noted for his industrious habits and 
his indifference to exposure whenever duty calls him. He 
lived a few years in Motley, Minn., where he was inter¬ 
ested in the lumber trade. He accumulated a nice little 
sum of money, when he decided to return to his old 
home. Estill County. He purchased a good farm and is 
still largely engaged in the handling of saw logs, ties. 


staves, etc. He is also the owner and proprietor of a 
splendid store, where he is selling a large quantity of 
goods. He carries in stock everything needed by farm¬ 
ers, mechanics, river men and almost every one else. His 
stock consists of Dry Goods, Groceries, Notions, Furnish¬ 
ing Goods, Boots and Shoes, Hats, Hardware, etc., and it 
is a fact that any one hunting good bargains can find 
them at the store of Mr. Williams. Mr. Williams has 
never had any political aspirations, but is a man who de¬ 
votes his whole time and attention to the conduct of his 
business, and has been successful. 



R. M. GARRETT 


Mr. R. M. Garrett, whose picture accompanies this 
sketch, was born in Estill County, Ky., Oct. 23, 1860. 
He was the son of R. H. Garrett, a well known and high¬ 
ly respected farmer. R. M. Garrett, generally called 
"Bob,” was raised upon the farm of his father until he 
was about twenty-one years of age, when he fell in love 
with Miss Lillie B. Warford. whom he married Jan. 5, 
1882. To them were born four children — all boys. Mr. 
Garrett continued to work upon his farm, which he bad 
bought, until he was elected Sheriff of the county in 
1902 by the Republicans without opposition. Now, that 
his term of office hns expired, he will make Irvine his 
home, although he will continue to operate his farm. He 
Is connected with the new bank, recently organized at 
this place, the Farmers' Bank, and Is one of the directors 
of that Institution. 

His oldest son, Oscar, Is a bright business young man. 
He served as deputy sheriff under his father, and now 
is enguged by the newly elected Sheriff, Mr. A. M. Dur¬ 
bin, to retain his position. 
















E. P. CAMPBELL’S LIVERY STABLE 


One of Estill's representative business men is Mr. E. 
P. Campbell. Mr. Campbell was born November 16, 
1858, in this county. His father was T. J. Campbell, 
an honest farmer; his mother was the daughter of 
Jonah Park, her name is Elizabeth. 

Mr. E. P. Campbell was educated in the common 
schools of the county, but he seemed to realize the neces¬ 
sity of an education and he therefore applied himself 
to master whatever came in his way. While a boy he 
assisted his father on the farm and acquired a knowl¬ 
edge that in after years proved to be of great benefit to 
him. As soon, however, as he quit school, he became a 
teacher himself, and taught for thirteen years. Many 
of his old pupils are proud today to say that they studied 
under Mr. Campbell. He then served a term as deputy 
sheriff under his father-in-law, Simpson Richardson. 
Under President Cleveland’s second administration he 
served for four years as storekeeper and gauger. Then 


he embarked in the grocery and butcher business, where 
he remained for seven years. Believing that there was 
a fine prospect to make money in the livery business, he 
bought the livery stable of Thomas Vaughn and also 
bought his residence. His ideas were correct, because 
Mr. Campbell has had and is still having great success 
attend him in the conduct of same. 

In 1881 he married Miss Annie Richardson, daughter 
of Simpson Richardson, a well-to-do farmer and the 
Sheriff of this county. To them were born five children 
—four boys and one girl. The experience of Mr. Camp¬ 
bell in his business affairs proves that every rule has its 
exceptions. To quote “A rolling stone gathers no moss” 
is surely a mistake in this instance. Mr. Camphell not 
only has the satisfaction of knowing that he is a success 
as a business man, but he also has the satisfaction of 
knowing that he has a host of friends, who are glad of 
his achievements. 



A. M DURBIN 


Mr. A. M. Durbin, whose photograph is herewith pre¬ 
sented, is regarded as one of Estill County’s successful 
and most diligent citizens. He was born Feb. 25, 1856, 
in Estill County. He is the son of Edward Durbin, one 
of the county’s well known farmers. Mr. A. M. Durbin 
received a common school education, and followed the 
example of his father in the choice of occupation, re¬ 
maining upon the farm until 1892, when he moved to 
Old Landing and established a store. He has been a 
favored son of fortune. From the time of 1870, when 
he was a poor boy without a dollar to his name, he has 
accumulated more than twenty thousand dollars up to 
this date, and with his prospects and fine business ex¬ 
perience, it will be safe to say that within the next few 
years he will more than double that amount. 

In 1871 he married Rebecca Wells, to whom were 
born five children. After her death, he married Amy 
Stamper, and to them were born a like number of chil¬ 
dren. Mr. Durbin certainly approves of Roosevelt’s ideas 
on the subject of matrimony. Mr. Durbin is Postmaster 
at Old Landing. He was last month elected Sheriff of 
Estill County. 















\V. T. B. WILLIAMS 


Mr. W. T. B. Williams, whose photograph is herewith 
presented, is an acknowledged leader in the financial 
world. That is. he was until four years ago death took 
him from his numerous friends. He had. however, been 
blessed with a long life, being at the time of his death 
seventy years of age. He was regarded as a prominent 
man in business circles. At the time of his death he w r as 
the head of the banking establishment of W. T. B. 
Williams and Sons. Springing from the home of a poor 
farmer, he certainly deserves the praise which he gets 
because of his remarkable success in life. He was a 
member of Bibb Lodge, F. and A. M. and was buried by 


that body, assisted by the Richmond Lodge, in the 
beautiful cemetery at Richmond. Ky. Mr. Williams was 
twice married. His first wife was Miss White and the 
second wife was Miss Hamilton, daughter of Alex Hamil¬ 
ton. widely and favorably known in this county. His 
last wife and six children survive him. Mr. Williams was 
a true believer in the doctrine of the Calvanist Baptist 
and many the day he would travel many miles to attend 
Association or some other celebration of that body. 

We feel that his numerous friends will appreciate this 
slight token of esteem for our dear friend and will all 
unite in speaking a good word for him. 


W. T. B. Williams C& Sons, Bankers 

IRVINE, KENTUCKY. 


CAPITAL . $ 10,000 

DEPOSIT . I IH.OOO 

Offers every convenience and accommodation consist¬ 
ent with sound banking principles and respectfully so¬ 
licits your account. 


Officers: 

W. T. B. WILLIAMS. President. 

THOMAS WILLIAMS, Vice President. 

G. B. WILLIAMS. Second Vice President. 

JOHN C. CLARK, Teller. 

WILLIAM P. WILLIAMS, Cashier. 

MISS LULA SNOWDEN, Stenographer and Book-keeper. 











RESIDENCE OF DR. C. MARCUM 


Dr. Cornelius Marcum, whose home appears herewith, 
is regarded as one of the best physicians in Estill Coun¬ 
ty. As a business man, also, he enjoys an enviable repu¬ 
tation. He was born near Traveler’s Rest in Owsley 
County, Dec. 30, 1865. In 1878 his father moved to 
Estill County, where he could have the benefits of better 
schools. He attended the county schools until the years 
1887 and 1888, completing his high school course at 
that place. The years 1890-991-92 he attended the Med¬ 
ical Department of Central University or Hospital Col¬ 
lege of Medicine at Louisville, Ky., and received from 
that institution the degree of M. D. June 20, 1892. 

He located for the practice of his profession at Millers 


Creek, Estill County, on Aug. 9 following his graduation. 
On Jan. 2S, 1893, he was married to Miss Florence Neal, 
a daughter of Sidney Neal. Fortune, which had seemed 
to attend him in his previous career, continued lo smile 
upon him, when he was blessed with so excellent a wo¬ 
man for a wife. 

In November of the same year. Dr. Marcum was elected 
school superintendent, which position he filled with sat¬ 
isfaction to the people. 

Besides the practice of medicine. Dr. Marcum is en¬ 
gaged in the railroad tie purchasing and trading busi¬ 
ness, and has been eminently successful in the conduct 
of same. 



POST OFFICE AND STORE OF T. Q. WALLACE. 


The picture represents the store house of T. Q. Wal¬ 
lace, one of the leading merchants of Irvine. 

He carries a general line of up-to-date goods, consist¬ 
ing of Groceries, Confections, Hats, Shoes and he makes 
a specialty of Gent’s Furnishing Goods, of which he keeps 
a well selected lot. 


He is ably assisted by F. J. Stevens. 

He is a wide-awake merchant and gives his customers 
good value for their money. 

Give him a call when you desire to purchase anything 
in his line and you will not regret it. 




















RESIDENCE OF MRS. LENA WALLACE 


Mrs. Lena Wallace, the owner of this beautiful home, 
is one of the most accomplished milliners in the state 
of Kentucky. She carries a large assortment of goods, 
which she runs in connection with the general merchan¬ 
dise of her husband, who does business under the firm 
name of D. A. & J. A. Wallace, in Irvine. 

Sad to relate, only a few days after the artist se¬ 
cured a picture of this lovely home it was destroyed by 

LOOK US UP 

WHEN YOU NEED 

DEPENDABLE BUILDING MATERIAL 

— AT 

Reasonable Prices. 

ROUGH and DRESSED LUMBER, 

DOORS, SASH, FLOORING. SIDING, CEILING. 

MOULDINGS, SHINGLES, LATH 

Prices for the Asking. 

MILL AND YARD OPP. L. & A. DEPOT. 

ED. BLANTON <a CO. 

INCORPORATED. 

Richmond, Ky. 


fire, but true to the business principles that character¬ 
ize JI rs. Wallace, she was insured and has now built a 
residence that surpasses this one in beauty and con¬ 
venience. 

It is situated on the Kentucky River and from its 
wide verandas can be seen at any time one of the most 
beautiful views that exists in this country, where all is 
lovely and beautiful. 

j< >i<rs 

THE GROCER THE CATERER 

Everything furnished in Season. 

Do you want a good dinner or breakfast 
or supper, be sure to call on Joe and you 
will get it. 

Do you want any nice groceries, be 
sure to call on Joe and you will get it. 

EVERYTHING CLEAN, NICE AND COSY. 


TRANSYLVANIA CO., 
Li:ai>in<; Printers, Stationers 
OFFICE SUPPLIES. BLANK BOOKS, 

Art Material, Cameras and Supplies 

LEXINGTON, KY. 



















HIGH SCHOOL M'lLDlNO 



OI.I) SCHOOL BUILDING 













HISTORY 

OF 

IRVINE AND ESTILL COUNTY 



KENTUCKY 


E. C. PARK 



























wmwmwmwmwmwmwmwmwm 


STAKs oTMILLING COMPANY 

-*-*-*NICHOLASVILLE, -> KENTUCKY. 
MERCHANTS AND CUSTOM MILLERS. 

PROPRIETORS: 

J. S. C. BRONAUGH, W. L. STEELE, W. P. KNIGHT. 


BRANDS OF FLOUR: 


BONTON, AMERICAN BEAUTY, DAILY BREAD, 

BOB WHITE, GILT EDGE. 

One Of The Finest Mills In The State Of Kentucky". 

PRICES GUARANTEED. 

MAILORDERS SOLICITED. 


J. W. DUNCAN, ‘ Traveling Salesman. 













APR 23 IJI09 





Kellogg & Company, 

RICHMOND, Ky. 

Wholesale 

Grocers. 



The Leading Grocers in this part of the 
State. 

The Best Stock of Goods, 

The Lowest Prices, 

THE BIGGEST TRADE. 

Give Them a Call and Find Out For 
'Yourselves. 

A. R. DENNY, 



Traveling Salesman 








































- HOPEFULS FLOUR 

“IT TRULY IS TRUE” 

THE FLAKIEST BISCUITS, THE LIGHTEST LIGHT 
ROLLS, THE WHITEST WHITE CAKES JRE MADE 
When You Use 

PEARL and BAKER’S PRIDE EEOEJR 

VOL CANNOT BEAT THE BEST. 

Manufactured By J. Andrew Cain, Versailles. RenlucRy. 

R. N. BROCK. Representative in Estill and Other Counties. 

















